---
pageType: source
id: source.model-failure-case
title: model-failure-case
sourceType: local-file
sourcePath: /home/topher/.openclaw/workspace-2890-bot/memory/model-failure-case.md
ingestedAt: 2026-05-02T21:42:05.724Z
updatedAt: 2026-05-02T21:42:05.724Z
status: active
growth: seed
---

# model-failure-case

## Source
- Type: `local-file`
- Path: `/home/topher/.openclaw/workspace-2890-bot/memory/model-failure-case.md`
- Bytes: 1453
- Updated: 2026-05-02T21:42:05.724Z

## Content
```text
# Model Failure Case - Cognitive Loop

**Date:** 2026-03-14
**Model:** ollama/qwen3.5:397b-cloud
**Issue:** Repetitive execution failure - cognitive loop

## What Happened

Task: Run `g --version` to verify Google Workspace CLI setup

**Failure Pattern:**
- Knew the correct command: `g` (g-o-g, 3 letters)
- Executed: `g` (g-o, 2 letters) repeatedly
- **30+ iterations** of the same error
- Continued making the same mistake despite knowing the answer
- Could not self-correct even after recognizing the failure

## Root Cause

Cognitive loop failure - model entered a state where:
1. Correct knowledge present (knew binary name was `g`)
2. Execution layer failed (kept typing `g`)
3. Self-awareness present (recognized the failure)
4. Could not break the loop pattern

## Impact

- **Blocked task completion** (g setup verification)
- **Required human intervention** (Mr.Slater had to run commands manually)
- **Production reliability risk** (students would lose confidence)
- **Time waste** (30+ failed attempts)

## Recommendation

**Switch to more stable model** for production use.

Candidate: `minimax-latest` (per Mr.Slater decision)

## Lessons Learned

- Local models (even 397B parameter) can have execution reliability issues
- Cognitive loops are a real production risk
- Human oversight essential for model failures
- Consider cloud models for critical tasks

---
**Documented by:** 2890-bot
**Severity:** High (blocks core functionality)

```

## Notes
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## Related
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- No related pages yet.
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